Karl Lagerfeld: Life In Pictures

We stage the legacy of the legendary Chanel designer.

By Ella Alexander

Getty Images Victor Virgile

Karl Lagerfeld was the most famous living designer in the world. Instantly recognisable and known for his sharp tongue, as much as he was for invigorating the house of Chanel, Lagerfeld was one designer who can truly lay claim to the often-used, seldom-true phrase, a fashion legend. As news of his death in Paris is confirmed, we look back at his remarkable career.

1954

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In 1954, the then entirely unknown designers Karl Lagerfeld and Yves Saint Laurent entered the International Wool Secretariat’s design competition (now known as the Woolmark Prize). Lagerfeld, who was 21 at the time, won the best coat category, while Saint Laurent, then 16 years old, came first place in the dress category. The panel included Hubert de Givenchy and Christian Dior, the latter of whom hired Saint Laurent on the spot.